Mind Mapping

I mentioned mind mapping in an earlier post so I thought I’d provide a bit more information on what I use it for. I was introduced to the concept by a colleague a few months ago and now I’m hooked. For me it’s a very visual way of thinking that suits my thought process. My main uses are:

Providing a visual overview of what my team and I are currently working on. I can document relationships between projects and tasks, and against entries I can note target dates, change request numbers and names of key resources.

Planning presentations.

Brainstorming projects.

Brainstorming/troubleshooting problems and issues.

A Google search on “mind mapping” will result in a plethora of links to sift through at your leisure. If you’re looking for an easy to read book to get you started then I’d recommend “The Mind Map Book” by Tony & Barry Buzan. Tony Buzan originated Mind Maps in the late 1960’s.

I currently use MindJet’s MindManger Pro as my mapping software of choice. You can download a 30 day free trial.
If you’re into open source software then there’s an excellent prodcut called FreeMind.

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[…] My friend and colleague Ant posts about Mindmapping, with the observation “I was introduced to the concept by a colleague a few months ago and now I’m hooked.”. What he neglects to mention is his original assessment of the technique – “oh no, Gary’s on another management fad!”. Just thought I’d call him out on it […]